Car shipping from Chicago, Illinois to Phoenix, Arizona

Last updated: September 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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CHICAGO TO PHOENIX

Auto Transport from Chicago to Phoenix

Planning to move your vehicle from the Windy City to the Valley of the Sun? Car shipping from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ doesn’t have to break the bank or cause headaches. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about auto transport costs, timelines, and insider tips for this popular 1,400-mile route. Get ready to discover how easy and affordable shipping your car can be.

Average Distance, Time
and Cost

AVG DISTANCE
1,754 mi
AVG TRANSIT TIME
2-6 days
AVG COST
$1000 – $1150
REAL-TIME PRICING DATA

Recent Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ Shipments

Actual car shipping prices from the last 30 days for routes between Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ. These represent real customer shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Live Pricing from Completed Routes Updated: September 2025
Origin Destination Total Cost Trailer Vehicle
Blue Island, IL Goodyear, AZ 900 Open SUV
Chicago, IL Tempe, AZ 700 Open Car
Gurnee, IL Phoenix, AZ 800 Open SUV
Oakbrook Terrace, IL Tempe, AZ 850 Open SUV
Chicago, IL Peoria, AZ 750 Open Car
Batavia, IL Phoenix, AZ 850 Open SUV
Plainfield, IL Peoria, AZ 875 Open SUV
Naperville, IL Tempe, AZ 850 Open SUV
Oswego, IL Goodyear, AZ 900 Open SUV
Lake Barrington, IL Tempe, AZ 900 Open SUV
CHICAGO, IL TO PHOENIX, AZ CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

I shipped my car from California to Michigan and Sakaem came back with the best quote and answered all of my questions. I wish they could tell you an exact day they could pick up, but overall the service was great and I got my car in less than a week with no issues. Happy customer!
Magen Kuzma
May 2022
Google logo
Great experience working with Sakaem, I hired them to transport my son’s vehicle from Chicago to Air Force base in Mississippi, vehicle was delivered as expected, driver was flexible with drop off location since he was not able to access into military base. So he arranged with my son to deliver at an outside location. Would work again with Sakaem Logistic in future.
alvaro lopez
Jul 2025
I recently had to move cross country and SAKAEM found a carrier for me in 3 days and they did an excellent job in getting my vehicle from NV to MA in 3.5 days. I wish I had more clarity on paying in full at the beginning, which was different than what I was told regarding a deposit and payment upon delivery. Luckily the carrier verified this so there were no issues. Overall, the move was seamless and I would use SAKAEM in the future.
Chris Cunningham
May 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car from Chicago to Phoenix

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Chicago, Illinois to Phoenix, Arizona Shipping Prices

Distance

The 1,400-mile journey from Chicago to Phoenix is considered a long-distance route, which naturally increases shipping costs. However, this popular cross-country corridor often has competitive pricing due to high carrier traffic between these major metropolitan areas.

Season

Winter months (November-February) typically offer the best rates for Chicago to Phoenix shipping, as many people are moving away from harsh Midwest winters. Summer months see higher prices due to increased demand from families relocating before the school year.

Route

The Chicago to Phoenix route follows major interstates (I-55, I-44, I-40), making it one of the more cost-effective long-distance shipping lanes. This well-traveled highway system means lower costs compared to routes requiring detours through rural areas or smaller roads.

Vehicle Type

Standard sedans and compact cars cost less to ship than SUVs, trucks, or oversized vehicles. Larger vehicles take up more trailer space, add weight (increasing fuel costs), and require more effort to load and secure, resulting in higher shipping fees.

Traffic Considerations

Avoid shipping during peak travel times like Thanksgiving week, Christmas, or major holiday weekends when roads are congested. These busy periods can delay transport and increase costs due to reduced carrier efficiency.

Carrier Availability

This popular route typically has good carrier availability year-round. During peak season (spring/summer), book 2-3 weeks in advance. Off-season bookings can often be arranged within a few days to a week.

Population Density

Both Chicago and Phoenix are major cities with good highway access, keeping costs reasonable. Consider pickup/delivery locations near major highways rather than downtown areas to potentially reduce fees and avoid traffic delays.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Avoid peak snowbird season when Chicago residents flock to Phoenix. Shipping during off-peak months like spring or fall can save hundreds of dollars on your car transport costs.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Meet your carrier near major highways like I-94 in Chicago or I-10 in Phoenix. Highway pickups are easier for large trucks than narrow neighborhood streets, reducing your shipping costs.

3

Hub city advantages

Chicago and Phoenix are major shipping hubs with excellent highway access. This route along I-80 and I-40 offers competitive rates due to high carrier traffic and multiple routing options.

4

Weather considerations

Winter shipping from snowy Chicago costs more due to weather delays and road hazards. Summer’s extreme Phoenix heat can also slow deliveries, so plan accordingly for seasonal challenges.

5

Booking in advance

Book your Chicago to Phoenix car shipment 2-4 weeks ahead for best rates. Last-minute bookings limit carrier options and force you to pay premium prices for available spots.

6

Open carrier transport

Choose open trailers over enclosed ones to cut costs significantly. Unless you’re shipping a luxury vehicle, open transport provides safe, weather-resistant shipping at a fraction of the price.

7

Flexible dates

Offer carriers a five-day pickup and delivery window instead of exact dates. This flexibility helps carriers optimize their routes, passing savings directly to you through lower shipping rates.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Chicago to Phoenix car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving from Chicago to Phoenix

Professional auto transport service for city-to-city moves

When planning car shipping from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ, you’ll need to register your vehicle in Arizona within 15 days of establishing residency [AZDOT]. Arizona requires a VIN inspection, emissions test (for Phoenix metro area), and proof of insurance before registration. Illinois vehicles moving to Arizona must pass emissions testing if they’re gasoline-powered and model year 1967 or newer [ADEQ].

Arizona’s vehicle laws differ significantly from Illinois. Window tinting allows up to 33% visible light transmission on front side windows, while Illinois permits only 35% [AZDOT]. Arizona doesn’t require front license plates, unlike Illinois. For auto transport preparation, consider that Phoenix’s desert climate means you can remove winter equipment like snow tires and emergency kits after your Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ move.

Insurance requirements vary between states. Arizona mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, compared to Illinois’ $25,000 requirement [AZDOI]. However, Arizona also requires $15,000 property damage coverage versus Illinois’ $20,000. Contact your insurance provider before your move to ensure continuous coverage during the car shipping process and to adjust your policy for Arizona’s requirements and different risk factors.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Chicago, Illinois to Phoenix, Arizona Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Preparing your vehicle for the Chicago to Phoenix route is crucial for a smooth shipping experience. Start by removing all personal items from inside your car – carriers aren’t insured for personal belongings, and items can shift during the 1,200+ mile journey.

Clean your vehicle inside and out before pickup. This helps you document any existing damage and makes the inspection process easier. Take photos of all sides, including close-ups of any scratches or dents.

Check these key items before your carrier arrives:

  • Remove toll passes, GPS units, and loose accessories
  • Ensure you have less than 1/4 tank of gas (reduces weight and meets safety requirements)
  • Disable car alarms and provide working keys
  • Check tire pressure and fluid levels
  • Remove or secure any aftermarket parts like spoilers or bike racks

For detailed preparation steps, see our complete Vehicle Shipping Guide. Remember, proper preparation protects your investment and helps avoid delays on this cross-country route.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ. At Sakaem Logistics, we require all our carriers to maintain a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.

Before your Chicago to Phoenix car shipment begins, we verify that your carrier’s insurance is active and valid. This protects your vehicle against damage or loss during the entire 1,700-mile journey.

What this means for you:

  • Your car is covered from pickup in Chicago to delivery in Phoenix
  • Insurance is included in your quote – no hidden fees
  • We handle all insurance verification before transport

We also recommend taking photos of your vehicle before pickup and upon delivery in Phoenix. This helps document your car’s condition and makes any potential claims process smoother.

We recommend booking your car shipping service from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you the best chance to secure competitive rates and reliable carriers.

Here’s why early booking matters:

  • Better pricing: Carriers can plan efficient routes and bundle multiple vehicles
  • More carrier options: Popular routes like Chicago to Phoenix fill up quickly
  • Flexible scheduling: You’ll have more pickup date options to choose from

If you need to ship on short notice, we can still help! Many carriers accept bookings with just a few days’ notice, though you may pay higher rates. Peak seasons (summer and fall) require even more advance planning.

Ready to get started? Contact Sakaem Logistics today for a free quote and let us help you avoid the inflated prices charged by industry giants.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open transport is the most common and budget-friendly option for shipping your car from Chicago to Phoenix. Your vehicle rides on an open trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road conditions. This method costs significantly less and works great for everyday vehicles.

Enclosed transport protects your car inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, dust, and road debris during the 1,200+ mile journey across multiple states. This premium service typically costs 40-60% more than open transport.

Choose enclosed transport if:

  • You own a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle
  • Your car has custom paint or modifications
  • You want maximum protection from Midwest weather and desert dust

Choose open transport if:

  • You’re shipping a standard daily driver
  • You want to save money on shipping costs
  • Your timeline is flexible (more availability)

Most customers shipping from Chicago to Phoenix choose open transport and are completely satisfied with the results. Both options are safe and reliable when you work with licensed carriers.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door-to-door auto transport service from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ. This means we’ll pick up your car right from your home or office in Chicago and deliver it directly to your new address in Phoenix.

Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide us with your pickup address in Chicago and your delivery address in Phoenix. Our assigned carrier will come to these exact locations to handle your vehicle. This saves you time and hassle – no need to drive to a terminal or meet at random locations.

However, we want to be upfront: sometimes door-to-door isn’t possible due to narrow streets, low-hanging branches, or local parking restrictions. In these cases, our carrier will work with you to find a safe, convenient nearby spot like a shopping center or gas station. This happens rarely, but we believe in being transparent about all possibilities.

The Chicago to Phoenix route is well-traveled by our carriers, making door-to-door service highly reliable on this popular shipping lane.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Car shipping from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ may seem complex at first, but understanding the basics makes the process straightforward. The auto transport industry operates through two main types of companies: brokers and carriers. Brokers like Sakaem Logistics act as intermediaries who connect customers with licensed carriers, while carriers are the companies that physically transport your vehicle on their trucks.

The car shipping process begins when you contact a reputable broker like Sakaem Logistics for a quote on your Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ route. Once you book the service, your broker will locate a qualified carrier with proper insurance and good reviews to handle your vehicle. The carrier will then schedule a pickup time and location in Chicago, load your car onto their transport trailer, and deliver it to your specified location in Phoenix. Payment is typically made to either the broker or carrier at pickup or delivery, depending on the arrangement.

Before your auto transport begins, there are important preparation steps to follow. Remove all personal belongings from your vehicle, as carriers are not responsible for items left inside. Ensure your car can roll freely, as non-running vehicles require special equipment and may incur additional fees. Keep your gas tank at about a quarter full – enough fuel for loading and unloading, but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight. For luxury or classic vehicles on the Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ route, consider enclosed trailer transport for maximum protection from weather and road debris during the journey.